As the two lads approached the wooden ladder they found that there were two boats made fast to the gangway. This looked suspicious, for the watch-keepers were allowed one only, for the purpose of communicating with the lamp-boat in case of emergency.
"That's not a government boat," whispered Armitage pointing to the outside one, a kind known as a wherry. The boat was now within arm's length, and taking hold of the gunwale, Harry peered into the mysterious craft.
With a stifled exclamation he released his hold with a strong shove, and the dinghy immediately drifted down stream.
"Pull in under the stern again," whispered Armitage excitedly.
"What is it?" demanded Standish.
"There are two dead men lying on the bottom-boards of that boat."
"Then the police have shot them. Those were the two shots I heard."
"Do you think so?" asked Harry. "It's the other way about, I fancy. If the water-police had fired the shots they would have signalled for assistance as soon as possible. No, Jack; I'm afraid it's like this. Some rascals have shot the two watchmen and are up to some villainy."
"Perhaps they are not dead after all."
"May not be," assented Harry. "Come on; I've got over the shock now. We'll see what's to be done."